System for replenishing energy sources onboard different types of automatic vehicles

ABSTRACT

A service station facility for replenishing various motivational energy sources onboard different types of automotive vehicles is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the service station facility includes a rack, replaceable fuel tanks, a service module, and an electronic computer control system. The replaceable fuel tanks are stocked on the rack and substantially filled with various fluids, such as hydrogen, which are utile as motivational energy sources within fuel-operated automotive vehicles. The service module is mounted on the rack, and the electronic computer control system is connected in electrical communication with the service module. In this configuration, the service module is controllably operable to receive a depleted replaceable fuel tank from a fuel-operated automotive vehicle and also selectively deliver one of the filled replaceable fuel tanks onboard the automotive vehicle. In another embodiment, the service station facility may also stock replaceable batteries for selective delivery onboard battery-operated automotive vehicles.

CROSS REFERENCE TO A RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 60/733,472, filed on Nov. 4, 2005 and entitled “Portable EnergyRack for Inserting and Charging.”

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to gas stations and servicestations for automotive vehicles. The present invention moreparticularly relates to energy resource stations for different types ofautomotive vehicles such as, for example, electric, hydrogen, andfossil-fueled vehicles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the future, as world oil supplies diminish or become more difficultto access, new types of fuels or energy storage cells such as batterieswill have to be developed and integrated for use in automotive vehiclesand also in the service stations of national transportationinfrastructures. Though many alternative or replacement fuels arealready currently under development, hydrogen fuel is presentlyconsidered by many to be the most practical. In fact, there is already asignificant number of prototype hydrogen-fueled vehicles operating andin service on national roadways.

At the present time, however, a significant problem with utilizinghydrogen or any other type of alternative fuel or energy storage cell asa motivating power source onboard a vehicle is that there generally areno service stations or infrastructure to support the replenishing ofsuch fuels or power sources. To remedy such a problem, it is projectedthat any transportation infrastructure developed to support the use ofsuch alternative power sources onboard vehicles will have to do so at apace generally in concert with the actual production of such alternativevehicles. That is, due to practical cost and inherent supply and demandmatching concerns, such a pace is likely to be slow. In particular, theanticipated slow pace in developing and implementing such an alternativetransportation infrastructure is likely to be reinforced by severalhindering factors. Some of these factors may include, for example, thepersistence of the oil industry even as it is somewhat phased out ofoperation (which may take many years), the high cost of the new fueltechnology at low vehicle production volumes, and properly matching newvehicles' demand for such alternative fuels with service stations'capability to supply such alternative fuels. With particular regard tothe last factor, a transportation infrastructure with too fewalternative fuel service stations will somewhat deter persons frompurchasing alternative fuel vehicles and thus hinder the demand foralternative non-fossil fuels. Also, if too few alternative fuel vehiclesare purchased and operating on roadways, service station owners willthen be slow to update their stations' infrastructures so as toaccommodate such alternative fuel vehicles. Furthermore, in addition tothese hindering factors, as new vehicle technology is developed andintroduced for operating on such alternative fuels, the operatingcharacteristics of such new vehicle technology is likely to initiallyvary widely before preferred vehicle standards are commonly established.This additional hindering factor thus initially works againstestablishing the complementary relationship that is generally necessarybetween infrastructure and alternative fuel type vehicles even more. Forexample, as new vehicle technology is initially developed and introducedfor operating on such alternative fuels or power sources, there will beoccasions wherein a driver of a new hydrogen-fueled car cannot find aservice station along his route of travel that can replenish his car'shydrogen level. In another example, there will be occasions wherein adriver of a battery-operated car cannot find a service station that canrecharge her car's battery.

The various energy storage cells onboard some alternative vehicles mayparticularly include batteries of the following type: nickel-cadmiumtype batteries, nickel/metal-hydride type batteries, silver-zinc typebatteries, lead-acid type batteries, and lithium-ion type batteries.Hydrogen may be stored on alternative vehicles in either liquid orgaseous form within tanks or within various types of retention cells.Presently, there are several types of hydrogen retention materials beingstudied such as, for example, metal hydrides, sea salt, and also liquidcarriers such as benzene, naphthalene, cyclohexane, and decalin. Theadvantage in utilizing such retention materials is their characteristicability to accommodate both higher hydrogen densities and lower (i.e.,safe) operating pressures while also enabling equivalent or bettervehicle travel ranges that are common with more conventional vehiclesthat retain and operate on gasoline. The disadvantage, however, inutilizing such retention materials is the characteristically slowre-hydrogenation rate that is associated therewith. In particular, whenutilizing such hydrogen retention materials, studies have shown thatre-hydrogenation rates of up to 3 to 6 hours are generally necessary atsafe pressures. Such re-hydrogenation rates or times are generallycomparable to that of the time required to recharge a battery in abattery-operated vehicle, and such an excessive amount of charging timehas historically inhibited wide introduction and use of battery-operatedvehicles. In particular, when the battery of a battery-operated vehiclebecomes discharged during use, the vehicle's driver must thendiscontinue driving the vehicle for a significant period of time whilethe vehicle's battery is recharged at a location with both a batterycharger and space to park the vehicle (i.e., a charging site). Inindustry, to remedy such a problem, a driver of a battery-operatedvehicle having a discharged battery typically switches vehicles byobtaining a replacement vehicle with a fully charged battery, or thedriver may alternatively let the vehicle's battery recharge during offhours before driving the vehicle again on a subsequent workday. Suchdiscontinuity in use of a battery-operated vehicle, however, isgenerally not practical for persons needing long-distance and/orfrequent vehicle transportation.

Therefore, in view of the above, there is a present need in the art fora service station facility that is both equipped and able to replenishvarious motivational energy sources onboard different types ofautomotive vehicles in relatively short periods of time.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a service station facility forreplenishing various motivational energy sources onboard different typesof automotive vehicles. In one embodiment, the service station facilitymay include a rack, a plurality of replaceable fuel tanks, a servicemodule, and an electronic computer control system. The replaceable fueltanks are stocked on the rack and substantially filled with variousfluids utile as motivational energy sources within fuel-operatedautomotive vehicles. The service module is mounted on the rack, and theelectronic computer control system is connected in electricalcommunication with the service module. In this configuration, theservice module is controllably operable to receive a depletedreplaceable fuel tank from a fuel-operated automotive vehicle and alsoselectively deliver one of the filled replaceable fuel tanks onboard thefuel-operated automotive vehicle. In the same embodiment, the servicestation facility may optionally further include a plurality ofreplaceable batteries stocked on the rack for selective delivery onboardbattery-operated automotive vehicles as well.

In another embodiment, the service station facility may include a rack,a plurality of fuel storage tanks, a fluid pumping system, a servicemodule, and an electronic computer control system. The fuel storagetanks are mounted on the rack and adapted to retain various fluids utileas motivational energy sources within fuel-operated automotive vehicles.Both the fluid pumping system and the service module are mounted on therack and connected in fluidal communication with the fuel storage tanks.The electronic computer control system is connected in electricalcommunication with both the fluid pumping system and the service module.In this configuration, the service module is controllably operable toestablish fluidal communication with a fuel-operated automotive vehicleand also selectively deliver or inject one of the various fluids into adepleted fuel tank onboard the fuel-operated automotive vehicle. In thesame embodiment, the service station facility may optionally furtherinclude an electric charging system for substantially chargingdischarged batteries onboard battery-operated automotive vehicles aswell.

Furthermore, it is believed that various alternative embodiments of thepresent invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art whenthe detailed description of the best mode(s) contemplated for practicingthe present invention, as set forth hereinbelow, is reviewed inconjunction with the appended claims and the accompanying drawingfigures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is described hereinbelow, by way of example, withreference to the following drawing figures.

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of one practicable embodiment of aservice station facility for replenishing various motivational energysources onboard different types of automotive vehicles.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the service station facilitydepicted in FIG. 1. In this view, the service station facility ispartially cut away and shown to include a rack and a plurality ofreplaceable fuel tanks stocked on the rack by means of a circulatingconveyor system.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view highlighting the circulatingconveyor system depicted in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a transfer manifold of thecirculating conveyor system depicted in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 illustrates a partial sectional view of a holding clamp assemblyof the circulating conveyor system depicted in FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of another practicable embodimentof a service station facility. In this view, the service stationfacility is partially cut away and shown to include a rack and aplurality of replaceable fuel tanks stocked on the rack by means of arobotic arm engaged on a rail system.

FIG. 7 illustrates a partial sectional view of a robotic service modulemounted on the rack of the service station facility depicted in FIG. 6.In this view, the robotic service module is engaged underneath the fueltank of an automotive vehicle being serviced.

LIST OF PARTS AND FEATURES

To facilitate an understanding of the present invention, a list of partsand features highlighted with alphanumeric designations in FIGS. 1through 7 is set forth hereinbelow.

-   -   8 service station facility (first embodiment as a towable        trailer)    -   9 automotive vehicle    -   10 rack or framework    -   11 fuel tank(s) or energy cell(s)    -   12 robotic service module    -   13 electronic computer control system    -   14 hitch or tow bar    -   15 wheel(s) (mounted at the bottom of the rack)    -   16 conveyor system    -   17 electrolyzer system (for producing or generating hydrogen)    -   18 hose (for receiving water)    -   19 cable (for receiving electricity)    -   20 service station facility (second embodiment as in-ground        facility)    -   21 electric charging system (for recharging batteries)    -   22 position sensor(s) (for alignment of robotic service module        to automotive vehicle)    -   23 identification scanner or transceiver    -   24 control panel    -   25 display monitor    -   26 pay terminal    -   27 fuel storage tanks(s) (which may store, for example,        hydrogen)    -   28 high-pressure fluid pumping system (for pumping fuel, for        example, hydrogen)    -   29 battery (or batteries)    -   30 foldable ramp(s) (for automotive vehicle)    -   31 hydraulic lift system (for lifting and aligning the robotic        service module)    -   32 service hole (in service platform)    -   33 fuel cell (which operates on hydrogen)    -   34 service platform (for automotive vehicle) stabilizer(s)    -   36 rack-and-pinion mechanism (for adjusting the robotic service        module)    -   37 permanent vehicle guide rail(s)    -   38 non-permanent hand rail(s) (which require assembly)    -   39 signaling device (for giving vehicle driving instructions        such as go, slow, stop)    -   40 heating and cooling system    -   41 transfer manifold (of conveyor system)    -   42 quick disconnect (breaks before rotation)    -   43 quick disconnect (makes before rotation)    -   44 dual quick disconnect manifold    -   45 slip ring    -   46 hose wheel (of conveyor system)    -   47 high-pressure fuel supply line (from electrolyzer system)    -   48 fuel umbilical hose and/or electric cable    -   49 clamp(s)    -   50 transfer line(s) (for example, fuel refilling hoses and/or        electric recharging cables)    -   51 holding clamp assembly (for conveyor system)    -   52 electric power connector    -   53 electric power input connector    -   54 fuel inlet port (passing, for example, hydrogen)    -   55 retention pin(s)    -   56 holding clamp(s)    -   57 quick disconnect(s)    -   58 electromagnetic actuator (for example, a quick disconnect        solenoid)    -   59 electromagnetic driver (for example, a clamping solenoid)    -   60 power and status signal cable (for heating system)    -   61 bearing(s)    -   62 roller bearing(s)    -   63 roller assembly    -   64 railing (of conveyor system)    -   65 pull chain    -   66 sprocket wheel (for engaging pull chain)    -   67 front end axle of conveyor system (driven by an electric step        motor)    -   68 cooling vent(s)    -   69 hook-up (for receiving water)    -   70 hook-up (for receiving electricity)    -   71 controllable robotic arm (for moving fuel tanks, fuel cells,        and batteries)    -   72 positionable carriage (for supporting robotic arm)    -   73 electric motor (for positioning robotic arm carriage on rail        system)    -   74 rail system (for moving robotic arm about the rack)    -   75 in-ground enclosure (made of, for example, fiberglass)    -   76 bay area (for refilling fuel tanks and fuel cells and/or        recharging batteries)    -   77 compartment    -   78 power source (for electric heater)    -   79 utility trough (for umbilical hoses, refueling hoses, and        electric charging cables)    -   80 liquidizer and refrigeration system (chiller)    -   81 rail system (for moving and positioning the robotic service        module)    -   82 ground level    -   83 vehicle retention mechanism(s)    -   84 alignment pin(s)    -   85 electric torque motor(s)    -   86 electric motor    -   87 jackscrew    -   88 electric motor (for adjusting the robotic service module)    -   89 motor mount(s)    -   90 electric power input connector    -   91 fuel inlet port (passing, for example, hydrogen)    -   92 hose coupler

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1 and 2 respectively illustrate side and perspective views of onepracticable embodiment of a service station facility 8 pursuant to thepresent invention. In general, the service station facility 8 is adaptedfor replenishing various motivational energy sources onboard differenttypes of automotive vehicles.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the service station facility 8 includes arack 10, a plurality of replaceable fuel tanks 11, a robotic servicemodule 12, and an electronic computer control system 13. The replaceablefuel tanks 11 are stocked on the rack 10 and substantially filled withvarious fluids utile as motivational energy sources within fuel-operatedautomotive vehicles. The robotic service module 12 is adjustably mountedon the rack 10 via a hydraulic lift system 31, a rack-and-pinionmechanism 36, and a rail system 81. The electronic computer controlsystem 13 is connected in electrical communication with the roboticservice module 12 and its adjusting systems and mechanisms as well. Inthis configuration, the robotic service module 12 is controllablyoperable to remove a depleted replaceable fuel tank from a fuel-operatedautomotive vehicle 9 and also selectively install one of the filledreplaceable fuel tanks 11 onboard the fuel-operated automotive vehicle9. As used herein, the term “robotic” may include any electrically,mechanically, hydraulically, and/or pneumatically assisted arms or levermechanisms, whether controlled by a computer, a human operator, or acombination of both computer and human operator.

In general, the replaceable fuel tanks 11 may be filled with manyvarious types of fluids that are utile within fuel-operated automotivevehicles. As used herein, the term “fluid” may include either or bothliquid and gaseous states, depending on context. Though other fluids arepossible, some of these various fluids may particularly include, forexample, biodiesel, bioethanol, biomethane, butanol, compressed air,compressed hydrogen, compressed natural gas, diesel, ethanol, gasoline,hydride, hydrogen, hythane, liquefied natural gas, liquid hydrogen,liquid nitrogen, methane, methanol, oxygen, P-series fuel, propane,vegetable oil, or some blend thereof.

As further shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the service station facility 8 alsoincludes a closed-loop conveyor system 16 on which the fuel tanks 11 arereleasably held. The conveyor system 16 is mounted on the rack 10 andconnected in electrical communication with the electronic computercontrol system 13. In this configuration, the conveyor system 16 iscontrollably operable to circulate the replaceable fuel tanks 11 aboutthe service station facility 8 so that the robotic service module 12 hasselective access to each of the fuel tanks 11.

As best shown in FIG. 2, the service station facility 8 further includesan electrolyzer system 17 for generating or producing hydrogen. Theelectrolyzer system 17 itself has both a hose 18 and a cable 19 forthereby receiving water and electricity from public utilities. Theelectrolyzer system 17 is connected in electrical communication with theelectronic computer control system 13 and also controllably connectablein fluidal communication with any of the replaceable fuel tanks 11 onthe conveyer system 16. In this configuration, the electrolyzer system17 is controllably operable to receive both water and electricity tothereby produce hydrogen so as to substantially fill or refill any ofthe replaceable fuel tanks 11 on the conveyor system 16 that aredesignated for retaining hydrogen. Furthermore, it is to be understoodthat the electrolyzer system 17 for producing hydrogen, or any otherfuel generation or storage system in general, may alternatively besituated in a second facility that is located near to the servicestation facility 8 and connected thereto via one or more fluid (forexample, hydrogen) and/or electrical supply lines. Such an alternativearrangement may in some circumstances be desirable if a fuel generationor storage system is deemed to be too large to include within theservice station facility 8. In this way, the service station facility 8is still able to maintain its portability.

In addition to including the fuel tanks 11, the service station facility8 also includes a plurality of replaceable batteries 29 stocked on therack 10. In general, the batteries 29 are all substantially charged withelectric charges that are sufficient and utile as motivational energysources within battery-operated automotive vehicles. As depicted inFIGS. 1 and 2, the replaceable batteries 29 are releasably held on theconveyor system 16 along with the fuel tanks 11. In this configuration,the conveyor system 16 is controllably operable to circulate thereplaceable batteries 29 about the service station facility 8 so thatthe robotic service module 12 has selective access to each of thebatteries 29. In this way, the robotic service module 12 is controllablyoperable to remove a discharged replaceable battery from abattery-operated automotive vehicle and also selectively install one ofthe charged replaceable batteries 29 onboard the battery-operatedautomotive vehicle.

In general, the plurality of replaceable batteries 29 stocked on therack 10 may include many different types of batteries that are utilewithin battery-operated automotive vehicles. Though other types ofbatteries are possible, some of these batteries 29 may particularlyinclude, for example, a lead-acid type battery, a lithium-ion typebattery, a nickel-cadmium type battery, a nickel/metal-hydride typebattery, or a silver-zinc type battery.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the service station facility 8 furtherincludes an electric charging system 21 for recharging any batteries 29on the conveyor system 16 that are discharged. The electric chargingsystem 21 is connected in electrical communication with the cable 19 forthereby receiving electricity from a public utility. In addition, theelectric charging system 21 is connected in electrical communicationwith the electronic computer control system 13 and also controllablyconnectable in electrical communication with any of the replaceablebatteries 29 on the conveyor system 16. In this configuration, theelectric charging system 21 is controllably operable to substantiallycharge any of the replaceable batteries 29 on the conveyor system 16that are designated for recharging.

As best shown in FIG. 2, the service station facility 8 further includesa plurality of wheels 15, a hitch 14, and one or more stabilizers 35.The hitch 14 is mounted on one end of the rack 10, and the wheels 15 arerotatably mounted at the bottom of the rack 10. In this configuration,both the hitch 14 and the wheels 15 facilitate towing of the servicestation facility 8 by, for example, a large truck. Whenever the servicestation facility 8 is unhitched, each stabilizer 35 helps balance andstabilize the service station facility 8 so that an automotive vehicle 9can be safely driven up one of the ramps 30 and onto the facility'sservice platform 34 for service.

As further shown in FIG. 2, the service station facility 8 also includesone or more position sensors 22 and an electronic signaling device 39.The position sensors 22 and the signaling device 39 are all mounted atthe top of the rack 10 and about the service platform 34. Both theposition sensors 22 and the signaling device 39 are connected inelectrical communication with the electronic computer control system 13.In this configuration, each position sensor 22 is controllably operableto sense the position of an automotive vehicle 9 relative to the servicestation facility 8 and its main service features, such as both theservice hole 32 and the robotic service module 12 on the facility'sservice platform 34. In this way, proper alignment and controlledoperation of the robotic service module 12 relative to the automotivevehicle 9 is facilitated while the automotive vehicle 9 is serviced onthe platform 34. In this same configuration, the signaling device 39further facilitates proper alignment between the automotive vehicle 9and both the service hole 32 and the robotic service module 12 bydisplaying various driving instructions to the driver of the vehicle 9as dictated by the position sensors 22. Some of the driving instructionsdisplayed on the signaling device 39 may include, for example, “go,”“slow,” “stop,” or even others.

In addition to the above, the service station facility 8 also includes atransceiver 23. The transceiver 23 is mounted at the top of the rack 10and situated along one side of the service platform 34. The transceiver23 is also connected in electrical communication with the electroniccomputer control system 13. Situated and connected as such, thetransceiver 23 is controllably operable to establish electromagneticcommunication with an automotive vehicle 9 to be serviced and therebyidentify the vehicle 9 so that the robotic service module 12 can servicethe vehicle 9 accordingly. By initially identifying an automotivevehicle 9 in this way, the electronic computer control system 13 cancontrol the robotic service module 12 so as to install the proper typeof fuel tank 11 (containing the proper type of fuel) or the proper typeof battery 29 into the vehicle 9.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the service station facility 8further includes a control panel 24, a display monitor 25, and a payterminal 26. The control panel 24, the display monitor 25, and the payterminal 26 are all mounted at the top of the rack 10 and situated alonga side of the service platform 34. In addition, they are all connectedin electrical communication with the electronic computer control system13 as well. Situated and connected as such, the control panel 24 and thedisplay monitor 25 facilitate controlled operation of the servicestation facility 8 by either a service attendant or a vehicle driverhimself (i.e., self service). The pay terminal 26, in turn, facilitateson-the-spot payment for service by the driver of each automotive vehicle9.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the conveyor system 16 depictedin FIG. 2. In this view, the two rotating end shafts, the semicircularend guide rails, the holding clamps 56, and the rotating transfermanifold 41 of the conveyor system 16 are all highlighted.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the rotating transfer manifold41 of the conveyor system 16 depicted in FIG. 3. In this view, the dualdisconnect system of the transfer manifold 41 is highlighted. As shownin FIG. 4, the dual disconnect system particularly includes onemake-before-rotate quick disconnect 43 and one break-before-rotate quickdisconnect 42, which are situated 180 degrees away from each other aboutthe transfer manifold's hose wheel 46. In general, such a dualdisconnect system eliminates the need for a fuel fill-line hose tocirculate with the conveyor system.

FIG. 5 illustrates a partial sectional view of one holding clampassembly 51 of the circulating conveyor system 16 depicted in FIG. 3. Inthis view, the holding clamp assembly 51 is shown to ride on the railing64 about the conveyor system 16 as driven by a pull chain 65 and asprocket wheel 66. As further shown in the view of FIG. 5, the holdingclamp 56 of the assembly 51 operates to both engage and lock onto a fueltank 11 on the conveyor system 16 and also pull the fuel tank 11 aroundthe conveyor system 16 so that the tank 11 rides on rail-mounted rollerbearings 62. At about the same time that the holding clamp 56 of theassembly 51 locks onto the fuel tank 11, both a fluidal (i.e., fuel)connection and an electrical connection are respectively made with thefuel tank 11 via an electric power connector 52 and a quick disconnect57. To later transfer the fuel tank 11 from the conveyor system 16 tothe robotic service module 12 for installation onboard an automotivevehicle 9, both the fluidal connection and the electrical connectionestablished by the holding clamp assembly 51 with the fuel tank 11 arebroken so as to release the tank 11 from the conveyor system 16.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of another practicable embodimentof a service station facility 20 pursuant to the present invention. Inthis view, the service station facility 20 is shown to be largelyprefabricated and housed in an enclosure 75 that has been lowered intoan excavated hole in the ground. As a result, the service stationfacility 20 has a service platform 34 that is substantially even withground level 82.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, the service station facility 20does not include a conveyor system for moving and stocking fuel tanksand batteries as does the facility 8 in FIGS. 1 and 2. Instead, theservice station facility 20 includes a bay area 76 wherein bothreplaceable fuel tanks 11 and replaceable batteries 29 are stocked andstored on a shelf-like rack 10. To move the fuel tanks 11 and thebatteries 29 about the facility's bay area 76 and both onto and off ofthe robotic service module 12, the service station facility 20alternatively includes a controllable robotic arm 71 mounted on acarriage 72. The carriage 72 along with the robotic arm 71 arepositionable about the facility's bay area 76 by means of a rail system74. The carriage 72 is engaged on the rail system 74 and is movedthereon by an electric motor 73. The carriage 72 and its electric motor73 are both connected in electrical communication with the facility'selectronic computer control system 13 so as to control all movement ofthe robotic arm 71.

As further shown in FIG. 6, the service station facility 20 alsoincludes a plurality of supplemental fuel storage tanks 27 and ahigh-pressure fluid pumping system 28. The fuel storage tanks 27 aremounted on the rack 10 and adapted to retain various fluids utile asmotivational energy sources within fuel-operated automotive vehicles.One or more of the fuel storage tanks 27 themselves may initially befilled by an electrolyzer system 17 (in the case of hydrogen) connectedthereto or by mobile tanks on trucks or railway cars. The fluid pumpingsystem 28 is also mounted on the rack 10 and connected in fluidalcommunication with the fuel storage tanks 27. The electronic computercontrol system 13 is connected in electrical communication with thefluid pumping system 28. In this configuration, fluid (i.e., fuel) maygenerally be controllably pumped by the fluid pumping system 28 from thefuel storage tanks 27 and into the replaceable fuel tanks 11 in the bayarea 76. Establishing a fluidal connection between one of the fuelstorage tanks 27 and one of the replaceable fuel tanks 11 forsuccessfully transferring fluid therebetween for refilling the tank 11is particularly accomplished with help from the robotic arm 71.

In addition thereto, the service station facility 20 also includes anelectric charging system 21. The electric charging system 21 is mountedon the rack 10 and connected in electrical communication with theelectronic computer control system 13. In this configuration, electriccurrent may generally be controllably communicated from the electriccharging system 21 and into the replaceable batteries 29 in the bay area76. Establishing an electrical connection between the electric chargingsystem 21 and one of the replaceable batteries 29 for successfullytransferring electric current therebetween for recharging the battery 29is particularly accomplished with help from the robotic arm 71.

In a possible alternative embodiment, it is to be understood that thefuel storage tanks 27 may be directly connected in fluidal communicationwith the robotic service module 12 itself. In such a configuration, therobotic service module 12 would be controllably operable to establishfluidal communication with a fuel-operated automotive vehicle and alsoselectively inject one of the various fluids from the fuel storage tanks27 directly into a depleted fuel tank onboard the vehicle. Similarly, itis to be understood that the electric charging system 21 may be directlyconnected in electrical communication with the robotic service module 12as well. In this way, the robotic service module 12 would becontrollably operable to establish electrical communication with abattery-operated automotive vehicle and also substantially recharge adischarged battery onboard the vehicle.

FIG. 7 illustrates a partial sectional view of the robotic servicemodule 12 adjustably mounted on the rack 10 of the service stationfacility 20 depicted in FIG. 6. In this view, the robotic service module12 is engaged underneath the fuel tank 11 of an automotive vehicle 9that is being serviced. As also shown in this view of FIG. 7, theautomotive vehicle 9 includes one or more retention mechanisms 83 forreleasably holding the fuel tank 11 in place after the tank 11 isinstalled by the robotic service module 12. As further shown in FIG. 7,the robotic service module 12 includes one or more electric torquemotors 85 engaged with a matching number of vertical alignment pins 84,which ensure proper engagement of the service module 12 and the vehicle9 while also releasing the retention mechanism 83. The jackscrew 87 andthe electric motor 88 are used for moving the robotic service module 12up and down with its fuel tank load. Equipped as such, the roboticservice module 12 can thus remove a depleted fuel tank from the vehicle9 and also install a full fuel tank 11. Furthermore, in FIG. 7, therobotic service module 12 is also shown to have both an associatedrack-and-pinion mechanism 36 and an associated electric motor 88 mountedon the rack 10 of the service station facility 20. Together, therack-and-pinion mechanism 36 and the electric motor 88 work to adjustand position the robotic service module 12 for proper lateral alignmentwith the automotive vehicle 9.

In general, the present invention as described hereinabove is able tosupply both the appropriate fuel type and the appropriate fuel tank typeat needed locations in a cost effective and timely manner. It isanticipated that the invention when properly implemented will helpincrease the pace at which hydrogen-fueled vehicles are adopted andfavorably received by the general public.

In essence, the above-described service station facility 8 is a PortableEnergy Rack for Inserting and Charging (PERIC) replaceable energystorage cells or devices such as batteries, fuel cells, fuel tanks,hydrogen tanks, and the like. The PERIC can be constructed to provideconventional tank refueling and battery recharging services incombination with tank and battery exchange capabilities.

A service station facility pursuant to the present invention may be astationary or permanent structure like the above-described facility 20.It is anticipated, however, that the portable facility 8, which caneasily be moved to locations in demand of a particular type ofreplaceable energy storage cell, will be highly functional and moreeffective in facilitating a transition from use of conventional vehiclesto use of alternative fuel vehicles. The desirability of such facilityportability is likely to result from the initial establishment ofinfrastructures that support the use of new energy sources in thetransportation system too prematurely. That is, not only will there be ashortage of available service stations for the dispensing of new fuelsor energy types, but as new energy technologies continue to develop, itis anticipated that alternative fuel service stations initially madeavailable will suddenly become obsolete for the latest fuel typevehicle. Thus, initial use of new alternative fuel types is likely tovary widely from location to location geographically, depending perhapson demographics such as urban or rural areas, or depending on theparticular type of fuel technology that different states will choose tofirst promote.

The PERIC facility 8 can be made portable through use of any suitabletransportation means, including being carried in or on cargo vehicleslike semi trucks, train cars, or pallets of any kind. More practically,however, the facility 8 is best made portable by means of wheels 15attached to its undercarriage, as in a trailer. Having such wheels 15enables the facility 8 to be easily towed, moved, pulled, and ultimatelyparked by most any type of transportation means, including trucks, todesired locations in a timely and cost effective manner. Most presentlyexisting gasoline service stations are adequately suited to accommodatethe PERIC facility 8, in that the facility 8 will fit into mostconventional filling stalls and only requires electrical and waterhook-ups.

As also described hereinabove, a Stationary Energy Rack for Insertingand Charging (SERIC) replaceable energy storage cells or devices such asbatteries, fuel cells, fuel tanks, and hydrogen tanks of various kindsis proposed herein as well. This type of service station facility 20will become increasingly more desirable as the transportation industryboth moves toward and settles on one primary type of vehicle energysystem. The SERIC facility 20 is a stationary or permanent structure,which may be prefabricated and dropped into an excavated site, or into apreviously excavated site, as old in-ground gasoline tanks areprogressively removed from service stations. When utilizing such aservice station facility 20, automotive vehicles may simply be drivenonto a ground-level service platform 34 to be serviced.

The PERIC facility 8 and the SERIC facility 20 each include a sturdyframework or rack 10 that is able to support an automobile, a truck, orany vehicle of any kind or technology of mobility, to drive onto, or bepulled or pushed by external means onto, the top of the PERIC facility 8or the SERIC facility's service platform 34. The facilities 8 and 20 mayalso be constructed to provide service to automotive vehicles positionedalongside each facility instead of on top each facility. In this way,the facilities 8 and 20 would each have vertical servicing capability.

The facilities 8 and 20 also incorporate within their respectivestructures a robotic servicing apparatus or service module 12 forrefueling, or exchanging fuel or energy cells in automotive vehicles,automatically or autonomously. A single robotic service module 12 isgenerally employed to do both refueling and a tank or battery exchange,but two or more service modules may alternatively be installed whereineach service module is dedicated to a separate function. With removablefuel tanks or energy cells, the robotic service module 12 will beequipped with mechanisms for first decoupling a vehicle's fuel tank orenergy cell, and then lowering it to a stowed position within the rack10 for the purpose of refueling or recharging. Thereafter, the roboticservice module 12 will reinstall a refilled/recharged tank/cell/batteryinto the automotive vehicle 9, thereby ensuring that thetank/cell/battery is connected properly and secure onboard the vehicle9. Once servicing of the automotive vehicle 9 is completed, the customerdriver's pre-serviced fuel tank level or battery charge is subtractedfrom the cost of a full tank or full battery charge. Furthermore, in thecase of a vertically oriented system, the robotic service module 12 mayeither automatically or semi-automatically (i.e., assisted by a humanoperator) replace or replenish a desired fuel source.

The service station facilities 8 and 20 are constructed and designed tomove their respective robotic service modules 12 to specific locationson a serviced automotive vehicle 9 where the vehicle 9 needs to beserviced. Alternatively or in combination therewith, the facilities 8and 20 may also be constructed with means to position each vehicle 9 ina specific orientation on the rack 10 or service platform 34 for properalignment, so as to service the vehicle 9 with a fuel tank, energy cell,or battery of any type as required by the vehicle 9. For example, insome constructed facility-configurations, vehicles may be pulled upalongside the facilities 8 and 20, much like conventional gasolinestation pumps. Thereafter, the tank/battery exchange orrefueling/recharging may be carried out in either an automated oroperator-assisted manner.

The refueling capability is accomplished by providing onboard fuelstorage tanks 27, fuel transfer lines, electric cables, and fuel pumpsor battery chargers and also cable hook-ups. The storage tanks 27 may berefilled by onboard fuel generators or electrolyzer systems 17. Inaddition thereto or alternatively, they may also be refilled via one ormore external sources such as, for example, a tanker truck, a railwaytanker, or even one or more stationary pipelines.

Primarily, or in combination, the service station facilities 8 and 20are constructed to service vehicles with removable fuel cells, tanks, orenergy storage devices such as batteries. The facilities 8 and 20 willcontain within their respective mid sections a store of appropriatetanks or cells that are completely full or recharged, and will replaceor exchange a vehicle's removed tank/cell with a pre-replenished one.Alternatively, the facilities 8 and 20 may be interfaced with anadjacent store or silo of tanks or cells for the exchange. In general,the exchange method implemented in these facilities 8 and 20 is highlyefficient in that no refill/recharge time is required, which can takeseveral minutes to hours, especially for batteries, in a moreconventional facility. That is, in facilities 8 and 20, a customer maysimply drive his vehicle 9 onto or alongside the service platform 34 ofthe facility, wait a few seconds for the exchange to take place, pay forthe transaction, and then simply drive away. Such a brief and timelyexchange is one of the most desirable aspects of both the PERIC/SERICfacilities 8 and 20, in that it promotes the use of, and furtherfacilitates the transition to, a new fuel or energy technology such as,for example, hydrogen.

An example structure for the PERIC facility 8 is a rectangular frameworkor rack 10 that is constructed with a truss to support automotivevehicles 9 parked on top, to hold replaceable fuel cells stored inrecharging bays, or to hold a rotating conveyer system 16 of cells. Arail system 81 for moving each of the robotic service modules 12, or arail system 74 for moving the robotic arm 71 are each mounted to therespective framework or rack 10 of the service station facilities 8 and20. Each framework or rack 10 also includes compartments 77 forrefueling storage tanks 27, fuel generators or electrolyzer systems 17,heating and cooling units, and electronic computer control systems 13.Twin axial wheels 15 and stabilizers 35 are mounted to the undercarriageof the PERIC facility 8, along with a tow bar 14 mounted to the front,to thereby form a mobile trailer.

An example structure for the SERIC facility 20 is similar to the PERICfacility 8, except that the mobility aspect is not present in the SERICfacility 20. Instead, the SERIC facility 20 is constructed to be modularso that it can easily be placed into the ground using either a crane ora hoist at a desired destination site. The SERIC facility 20 issubstantially enclosed with, for example, fiberglass walls for therebywithstanding any adverse effects from the elements of in-groundenvironments.

An electronic computer control system 13 is mounted within eachfacility's controls for thereby refueling or exchanging cells or tankswithin vehicles. Mounted as such, the electronic computer control system13 operates to control and monitor the recharging of spent cells ortanks, and also controls any communication links established between theservice station facility itself, the automotive vehicles 9, and thecontrol panel 24. The electronic computer control system 13 is loadedwith autonomous software for the automatic or autonomous control of theoverall facility. Such control may particularly include, for example,the positioning of the robotic service module 12 for proper vehiclealignment, the monitoring and moving of the fuel or cells to and fromthe vehicles, the assuring of proper connections of fueling hoses andcables for safe operation, and also the monitoring and controlling ofcommunication interfaces between the facility itself, the vehicles 9,and the service control panels 24.

The electronic computer control system 13 interfaces with the facility'sproximity or position sensors 22 for thereby determining the relativelocations of vehicles 9, and the computer control system 13 alsocalculates the required repositioning for proper alignment. Suchlocation information is also used to communicate directions to a userthrough the control panel's associated display monitor 25 and electronicsignaling device 39 mounted on the front of the service stationfacility. The direction commands given by the signaling device 39 mayinstruct a vehicle driver to, for example, pull forward and stop asnecessary for proper refueling or for a proper tank exchange to takeplace.

In addition to the above, each service station facility has means forinteracting with and sensing the type of vehicles, to determining thefuel type requirement along with the quantity of fuel to be replenished,or the cell type and state of charge. The interaction protocol andidentification code definitions may be developed by collaboration withthe automobile industry via the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE),for example. The vehicle codes can be attached to the vehicles in anestablished location in the form of magnetic strips or barcodes forreading by one or more sensors or transceivers 23 mounted on thefacility. However, this type of link is limited in that no variableinformation can be transmitted from the vehicles to the facility aboutfuel or charge levels. A better alternative is for the facility andvehicles to have a communication link by means of infrared transceivers,electrical signal contacts, or wireless Radio Frequency Identification(RFID) means. These types of communication links can transmit thevehicle type, along with fuel type and level, or cell type and charge.The transmitted vehicle information is then communicated to thefacility's electronic computer control system 13. The computer controlsystem 13 may then control any actions necessary for properly servicingthe vehicle.

If refueling, the level of refueling can be controlled by the vehicledriver himself, or by an operator or service attendant, via the controlpanel 24 mounted on the facility, with the control panel 24 morepreferably made accessible to the driver near the vehicle's driver sidewindow so as to obviate the driver's need to exit the vehicle. At ornear the control panel 24, the driver may also pay for the fuel or tankexchange by means of a pay terminal 26 without having to exit thevehicle. In an alternative embodiment, a second control panel may bemounted on the side of the rack 10 for access by an operator, or by adriver who does exit the vehicle. Such an additional control panel mayalso be remotely operated via a cable or a wireless connection to thefacility by a service attendant.

After the service station facility 8 has determined the vehicle fuel orcell requirements, the facility 8 will automatically move the roboticservice module 12 to the fueling or exchange location on the vehicle,and autonomously exchange the cell, or refuel the vehicle. The exchangeprocess is performed by removing the spent cell from the vehicle, andthen placing it onto the conveyor system 16. A fresh cell is thenrotated by the conveyor system 16 to the insertion position. Incontrast, in the SERIC facility 20, the robotic arm 71 may move the cellto the bay area 76 for recharging, and the arm 71 may also retrieve afresh unit for replacement and installation in the vehicle. Incollaboration with the SAE, a standard retention mechanism 83, forexample, may be defined for various types of cells or tanks so as tohold the cells or tanks in the undercarriage of their respectivevehicles. The robotic service module 12 will achieve alignment with thevehicle retention mechanism 83 by means of the position sensors 22. Therobotic service module 12 then engages the retention mechanism 83 viaalignment pins 84, and then actively causes the retention mechanism 83to release the cell or tank 11 from the vehicle 9. This can beaccomplished, for example, by rotating a screw type locking bolt of theretention mechanism 83 by using an electric torque motor 85. The roboticservice module 12 is maneuvered within the facility 20 also by electricmotors on the rail system 81 via wheels or bearings. Alternatively, therobotic service module 12 may be positioned by a rack-and-pinionmechanism 36. Also, the robotic service module may lift and lower cellsor tanks using another electric motor and a jackscrew lift, oralternatively a hydraulic jack lift system 31. The robotic arm 71 alongwith its carriage 72 may maneuver in a similar manner, except that therobotic arm 71 itself will perform the lowering, lifting, and placing ofthe cells or tanks into the bay area 76 for charging. The robotic arm 71may be somewhat more versatile in that the interface definition of theindividual cells and tanks can be somewhat varied and less narrowlydefined. That is, given the robotic arm's dexterous clamp or claw on itsdistal end and also its intelligent controlling software, the roboticarm 71 may be utilized to grasp and move cells and tanks having multipledifferent configurations. In addition, the arm 71 could also be used bya human operator to aid or assist in positioning the cell or tank.

Alternatively or in combination with each robotic service module 12, theservice station facilities 8 and 20 may be constructed with a movableservice platform to help position the vehicles in a specific orientationfor proper alignment. Such can be accomplished, for example, by usinghydraulic cylinders or electric motors connected to a floating serviceplatform on bearings. The cylinders would extend or retract as directedby the electronic computer control system 13. In such an embodiment, thecomputer control system 13 sends position commands to cylinder valvecontrollers and receives position feedback signals from position sensorson the service platform. A simpler method, however, would be to use aguide rail 37 mounted to the service platform 34. Such will force thevehicle driver to place the vehicle in an approximate initial alignmentposition. Thereafter, final alignment may easily be achieved via themobility of the robotic service module 12 itself.

If a refueling process is required, the robotic service module 12 willautonomously connect a fueling hose or appendage as required to refuelthe vehicle. This again, can be accomplished by defining interfacerequirements with the SAE, and having the service module 12 maneuver thehose with gears, levers, screws, and sensors in a predefined manner forpositive engagement. A robotic arm with intelligent software, however,may again be a better approach for thereby ensuring versatile engagementcapability.

Preferably, the vehicle fueling port would be located on theundercarriage of the vehicle, for ease and safety of the mating process,out of harms way for any persons on or around the facility, but such isnot a necessary restriction. For side-mounted fueling ports on vehicles,the PERIC facility 8 will have side-mounted robotic service modules forvehicles to park alongside. For vehicles pulled on top of thePERIC/SERIC facilities 8 and 20, top-protruding side service modules 12will be utilized. In general, side-fueling robotic service modules willoperate and maneuver in a similar manner as the undercarriage-fuelingservice modules 12.

One method of stowing and refilling/recharging the tank/cell is for thefacility to contain within its midsection, a conveyor system 16 to movethe removed tanks/cells around a closed loop while beingrefilled/recharged. In this manner, the removed units are rotated out ofthe way, while the replenished units are simultaneously rotated intoposition for installation by the robotic service module 12. The lengthof the conveyor system 16, and consequently the number of stowed units,can be adjusted to meet the supply demand in concert with the refillingor recharging timing requirements.

In general, the conveyor system 16 includes a chain with holding clampsthat automatically grasp the tank/cell when put in place by the roboticservice module 12. Also mounted to the chain and split off to theclamps, are fuel umbilical hoses and/or electric cables 48 for refuelingand recharging. The clamps are spaced on the chain with a spacing toaccommodate the predefined tank/cell sizes. The clamp devicesincorporate sensors to sense when a tank/cell is placed, triggering aclamping action. The clamping action is electromagnetically driven, butcould be actuated by pneumatic means as well. The clamps also containalignment sensors and quick disconnects for aligning and connecting theumbilical hose or cables 48. The umbilical devices will contain quickdisconnects, connectors, or brushes as needed to temporarily connect thetanks/cells as they are placed and removed from the conveyor system 16by the robotic service module 12. The clamps also containelectromagnetic actuators and sensors for aligning and establishingthese temporary connections, which occurs after the clamping deviceconfirms a positive tank/cell clamp.

The conveyor system 16 itself is rotated by an electric step motor, butcan also be rotated by a hydraulic or pneumatic motor as well. Operationof the conveyor system motor is controlled by commands given by theelectronic computer control system 13. The required fuel and charge istransferred from storage tanks and generators to the conveyor refuelingand recharging hoses and cables, by a slip ring 45 mounted to a conveyorhose wheel 46 at one end of the conveyor system 16. Alternatively, thefluid and/or charge transfers can be done by a dual quick disconnectmanifold with sensors and actuators similar in operation to theumbilical arrangement. During a rotational step of the conveyor system16, one quick disconnect is maintained while the other is released. Thismethod eliminates the need for a service transfer hose and cable thatwould need to circulate around with the conveyor system 16.

Another method of refueling and recharging the exchangeable tanks andcells is for the facility to contain a storage rack system (or bay area)either internally within or adjacent to the facility. The roboticservice module 12 or robotic arm 71 would be controlled by electricalcontrol signals communicated from the electronic computer control system13, and would maneuver on rail systems as previously described herein.The computer control system 13 would receive charge level signals fromsensors situated within the bay areas. Keeping track of charge levelsenables the computer control system 13 to select a cell that meats acharge requirement of the customer. Such a system is more flexible inallowing the customer to purchase not fully charged cells. In using aconveyor system, if a customer did not want to pay for a fulltank/charge, the unit conveyor could be rotated to position a morerecently removed tank/cell partially filled or charged for installation.This would put the charge levels out of sequence, and would require moreconveyor rotations inbetween vehicles. These extra rotations would causeundesirable delays. Typically, however, full payments would not be aproblem with credit cards, and these delays would not occur.

In general, there are two ways in which service station facilities canobtain required fuels or battery charges. They can be externallytransferred to storage tanks and cells within the facilities for latertransfer to the vehicle tanks and cells. Alternatively or incombination, the facilities contain on-board fuel and charge generators.For hydrogen generation, an electrolysis hydrogen generator (i.e., anelectrolyzer system) is used that takes in facility water and electricpower. The by-products are oxygen and heat, both of which arenon-polluting exhaust. For gaseous or solid hydrogen retention tankrecharging (as in metal hydrides), a high-pressure pump and buffer tanksare also employed. For liquid hydrogen, a chiller, insulated tanks, anda refrigerating system are used to liquefy the hydrogen and store it atlow temperatures. Other types of source fuels can be used to generatehydrogen, such as methane or propane. But these all producecarbon-polluting byproducts, which is undesirable. The pollutants wouldneed to be filtered or stored, and also disposed of, in anenvironmentally friendly fashion. For battery charging, battery chargesare contained within the unit.

Currently, there are many off-the-shelf battery chargers and fuelgenerators commercially available. Any quantity or combination of suchdevices may optionally be included within either of the service stationfacilities 8 and 20 to generate the fuels and charges needed or requiredto service vehicle driver demand.

In summary, the PERIC facility 8 and the SERIC facility 20 generally actas universal fuel generators and storage facilities, and also generallyprovide a universal interface for various vehicle input needs, includinginputs such as gasoline, diesel, hydrogen, natural gas, electricity, orothers. The facilities 8 and 20 are generally equipped with universaladapters as needed to output the fuels and charges using connectors forinterfacing with vehicles operable by any given fuel source.Additionally, the service station facilities 8 and 20 also perform anautonomous, semi-autonomous, automatic, or semi-automatic exchange offuel tanks, cells or packs of any type, thereby simplifying, expediting,and making safer the energy input-output interface or transfer. Thestructure and function of the service station facilities 8 and 20 are toprovide a energy delivery system that interfaces universally with theseinputs, outputs, and also meets customer needs. Such is why the servicestation facilities proposed herein are so useful. In particular, simplyreplacing a hydrogen cell with a fully re-hydrogenated one generallyeliminates any significant time period for waiting while a vehicle isserviced. That is, if the vehicles are properly constructed withreplaceable tanks, cells, or batteries, and the machinery for performingthe exchange is sufficiently robust, then such swapping can beaccomplished with any type of tank, cell, or battery in a matter ofseconds.

While the present invention has been described in what are presentlyconsidered to be its most practical and preferred embodiments orimplementations, it is to be understood that the invention is not to belimited to the particular embodiments disclosed hereinabove. On thecontrary, the present invention is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the claims appended hereinbelow, which scope is to be accordedthe broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modificationsand equivalent structures as are permitted under the law.

1. A service station facility for replenishing energy sources onboarddifferent types of automotive vehicles, said service station facilitycomprising: a rack; a plurality of replaceable storage devices stockedon the rack and storing fluids or charges utile as motivational energysources for automotive vehicles; a service module positioned directlybelow an automotive vehicle having a depleted storage device; a liftsystem configured to raise, while the service module is directly belowthe automotive vehicle, the service module toward the depleted storagedevice for transfer of the depleted storage device from the automotivevehicle to the service module, the lift system further configured tolower the service module, while the service module is directly below theautomotive vehicle and while the depleted storage device is positionedon the service module, such that the depleted storage device is loweredaway from the automotive vehicle by the lift system; and a rail systemconfigured to move the depleted storage device toward a location forstocking the depleted storage device on the rack at the location, therail system further configured to move one of the replaceable storagedevices toward the automotive vehicle, wherein the lift system isconfigured to raise, while the service module is directly below theautomotive vehicle and while the one replaceable storage device ispositioned on the service module, the service module for transfer of theone replaceable storage device from the service module to the automotivevehicle.
 2. The facility of claim 1, further comprising a robotic armconfigured to move the depleted storage device off of the servicemodule.
 3. The facility of claim 2, wherein the rail system isconfigured to move the robotic arm.
 4. The facility of claim 1, whereinthe rail system is configured to move the service module.
 5. Thefacility of claim 1, wherein the rail system is configured to move thelift system and the service module.
 6. The facility of claim 1, furthercomprising a fluidal hose and an electrical cable connected to thedepleted storage device while the depleted storage device is stocked onthe rack.
 7. The facility of claim 1, further comprising a conveyorsystem configured to move the depleted storage device, wherein thedepleted storage device is connected to a fluidal hose and an electricalcable while being moved by the conveyor system.
 8. The facility of claim1, wherein the plurality of replaceable storage devices includes atleast one fluid tank and at least one battery.
 9. The facility of claim1, further comprising an electric charging system configured to rechargeat least the one replaceable storage device while the one replaceablestorage device is stocked on the rack.
 10. The facility of claim 9,further comprising: a sensor configured to sense a charge level of theone replaceable storage device and to transmit a charge level signalindicative of the sensed charge level; and a control system configuredto select the one replaceable storage device for the automotive vehiclebased on the charge level signal.
 11. The facility of claim 1, furthercomprising a control system configured to identify the automotivevehicle and to select the one replaceable storage device for theautomotive vehicle based on an identification of the automotive vehicleby the control system.
 12. The facility of claim 1, further comprising:at least one position sensor configured to sense a position of theautomotive vehicle; and an electronic signaling device configured todisplay an output based on the sensed position.
 13. The facility ofclaim 1, wherein the rack is located underground below the automotivevehicle while the depleted storage device is being exchanged for the onereplaceable storage device.
 14. A method for replenishing energy sourcesonboard different types of automotive vehicles, comprising the steps of:stocking a plurality of replaceable storage devices on a rack, thereplaceable storage devices storing fluids or charges utile asmotivational energy sources for automotive vehicles; positioning aservice module directly below an automotive vehicle having a depletedstorage device; lifting, while the service module is positioned directlybelow the automotive vehicle, the service module toward the depletedstorage device for transfer of the depleted storage device from theautomotive vehicle to the service module; lowering the service module,while the service module is positioned directly below the automotivevehicle and while the depleted storage device is positioned on theservice module, such that the depleted storage device is lowered awayfrom the automotive vehicle; moving the depleted storage device alongrails toward a location for stocking the depleted storage device on therack at the location; moving one of the replaceable storage devicesalong the rails toward the automotive vehicle; and lifting, while theservice module is directly below the automotive vehicle and while theone replaceable storage device is on the service module, the servicemodule for transfer of the one replaceable storage device from theservice module to the automotive vehicle.
 15. The method of claim 14,furthering comprising the step of moving the depleted storage device offof the service module via a robotic arm.
 16. The method of claim 15,wherein the moving the depleted storage device along the rails stepcomprises the step of moving the robotic arm along the rails.
 17. Themethod of claim 14, further comprising the step of recharging at leastthe one replaceable storage device while the one replaceable storagedevice is stocked on the rack.
 18. The method of claim 17, furthercomprising the steps of: sensing a charge level of the one replaceablestorage device; and selecting the one replaceable storage device basedon the sensing step, wherein the moving the one replaceable storagedevice along the rails toward the automotive vehicle step is performedin response to the selecting step.
 19. The method of claim 14, furthercomprising the steps of: identifying the automotive vehicle; andselecting the one replaceable storage device based on the identifyingstep, wherein the moving the one replaceable storage device along therails toward the automotive vehicle step is performed in response to theselecting step.
 20. The method of claim 14, further comprising the stepsof: connecting a fluidal hose to the depleted storage device; andconnecting an electrical cable to the depleted storage device.